Travel agent bookings rise

The number of Australians booking their overseas trips through travel agents has risen for the first time in four years, News.com.au has reported.

According to figures from Roy Morgan Research, in the year to March 55 per cent of Aussies used a travel agent to book their last international trip, compared to 53 per cent in December.

However, the number is still significantly down on June 2007's figure, which was 71 per cent.

Recent catastrophic events like the Christchurch earthquake and Japanese tsunami are thought to be behind the recent uplift in travel agent bookings.

Colin Bowman, Flight Centre executive general manager, commented, "The uncertainty of it all has highlighted the importance of having someone like a travel agent back at home to call on in a time of need."

A comprehensive travel insurance policy, such as those offered by InsureandGo, can provide holidaymakers with valuable assistance, however they’ve booked their holiday.